In-house Counsel
Some people find that working for in industry is the best fit for them. Many lawyers with a chemistry background work for chemical and life sciences companies. In-house lawyers tend to have a more regular schedule and become more intimately familiar with one area of technology. They also see how that technology fits into the company's business plan. At some companies, a scientist can transition from a bench researcher position to a patent liaison position and eventually to a patent agent position. As “house counsel,” they usually advise the company concerning legal issues related to its business activities that include patents, government regulations, contracts with other companies, and property interests. Some lawyers also work for universities, national laboratories, and government agencies.